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In the ever-changing world of construction, innovative ideas are transforming the way buildings are planned and built. The advent of smart building materials is one such game-changing finding that has ushered in a new era of construction possibilities.
Smart materials, also known as responsive or intelligent materials, possess qualities that can be modified in reaction to external stimuli such as temperature, light, pressure, or magnetic fields. Unlike conventional construction materials, smart materials have the unique potential to adapt, self-repair, or alter their structural qualities, changing the construction area.
Smart materials represent the future of environmentally conscious and changing architecture. They are in charge of building an environment that is both sustainable and energy efficient. Smart materials include concrete, glass, sensory materials, and smart responsive materials.
Benefits of Smart Materials;
- Energy Efficient
- Respond to extreme environmental conditions.
- Long-lasting materials
- Requires fewer maintenance materials
- Uses sustainable materials
- Is context-responsive
- Ensures efficient installation and construction
Smart Concrete
Concrete is the most often used construction material, and it is prone to cracking due to weather conditions. The Dutch created a type of concrete that can self-heal cracks and does not require any maintenance. The components of cement are developing by incorporating self-healing capabilities. Basilisk Concrete is a self-healing form of concrete that originated in the Netherlands. The concrete mix contains microcapsules that release a glue-like epoxy resin, which aids in the healing of cracks. This form of concrete is suitable for use in streets, sidewalks, and other applications.
Light Emitting Cement
Light-emitting cement/concrete is a smart, environmentally friendly substance that produces light on its own. Dr. Jose Carlos Rubio of the Michoacan University of Saint Nicholas of Hidalgo in Mexico created the substance. This novel material charges with natural sunlight throughout the day and emits light at night. The material uses a natural, sustainable technique of light charging that does not require the usage of resources. The microstructure of the cement has been changed to absorb solar energy.
Carbon Fibre
Carbon fibre is used in construction because it is strong and can be applied to a variety of structures. It is noted for features like strength and durability. It is stronger and stiffer than standard steel materials. Carbon fibre is made up of fine carbon strands that are weaved into various shapes according to design. The material’s flexibility allows it to tolerate extreme environmental conditions. Carbon fibres offer characteristics such as strength which is 5 times stronger than steel, lightweight, durability, and long-lasting use. Excellent chemical resistance and high tensile strength.
Hydromembrane
Hydromembrane, a moisture-responsive polymer, is another innovative cooling system component. It is a composite and passive cooling material that changes structure when exposed to moisture. The structure transformation aids in adjusting the internal temperature of any area. It is more energy-efficient than typical ventilation and air-cooling systems. When exposed to moisture, deformation causes a rise in moisture and evaporation rates, resulting in cooling. It is energy efficient and versatile at various scale applications.
Aerogel
Aerogel is an insulating material. It is an insulating material made by supercritical drying liquid gels of ammonia, chromium, tin, or carbon. Nanotechnology is used to create aerogel, which is an excellent insulator against excessive heat and temperature. Variations of Aerogel material are being created. Green Earth Aerogel Technology, a Spanish start-up, created carbon aerogel from rice waste and silica aerogel from rice husk ash. Aerogel is used as pipe and wire insulation, a paint additive, and a fireproof coating. Aerogel has good strength, is light in weight, and translucent in nature. It is fire resistant.
Smart construction materials improve the current building sector by improving sustainability, energy efficiency, and structural integrity. Future-proof buildings gain immensely from their adaptability, self-monitoring, and self-repair capabilities. The use of building chemicals in the development and maintenance of these smart materials is critical to assuring their success. As technology advances, smart construction materials will play an increasingly important role in the construction industry.
Sources
- https://www.azom.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=19428
- https://parametric-architecture.com/smart-materials-the-future-of-efficient-and-cutting-edge-design/#google_vignette
- https://medium.com/@yagnesh.pandya/how-are-smart-materials-transforming-construction-in-2024-e3a805ac6aef
- https://www.archdaily.com/982583/what-are-the-smart-materials-in-architecture
- https://medium.com/@bosechpolymers/the-role-of-smart-construction-materials-in-modern-building-6770db2dd20d